Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming not only to the patient but to their caregiver as well. It’s normal to feel lost or confused and not know where to start or what resources to ask for. Because a cancer diagnosis is a family diagnosis, LUNGevity wants caregivers to know they don’t have to go through it alone. There are resources available to help caregivers take care of their loved ones as well as themselves. Here are 5 important caregiver resources to help with your loved one’s lung cancer diagnosis. 

It’s been more than 3 years since the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) first declared a nationwide Public Health Emergency (PHE) due to COVID-19. Since then, periodic renewals of the PHE have increased the flexibility of healthcare delivery. The PHE is set to end on May 11, 2023. A separate National Emergency that was enacted due to COVID-19 ended on April 10. Of the two, the end of the PHE will be more consequential for day-to-day healthcare delivery.  

HOPE Summit is a weekend conference unlike any other! The Summit brings hundreds of people affected by lung cancer together to build their community, give and get support, and learn how to live well with lung cancer.

As returning participant Tom puts it, “Imagine a world where you can look around and see hundreds of people thriving with lung cancer. Imagination is not necessary! Join us at the LUNGevity Summit on May 5th and celebrate life!”

Cancer Grand Challenges is a partnership between Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), which funds global teams of leading researchers across various scientific disciplines to tackle some of the toughest challenges in cancer research. As Dinah Singer, Acting Director of NCI’s Center for Strategic Scientific Initiatives says, “Cancer research is a global endeavor.” 

Learn valuable information about good nutrition that can help you live well through lung cancer treatment and beyond.

Gain insight and tips from Oncology Dietitian Lori Bumbaco, MS, RDN, CSO, as she shares her expertise in an interactive presentation and answers nutrition questions from the community. Then watch a live cooking demo, where Lori prepares a healthy meal and snack and shares recipe ideas and cooking tips. You’ll also hear about additional support programs and resources for the lung cancer community offered by LUNGevity Foundation and Cancer Wellness Center.

A diagnosis of cancer has an impact on the entire family. Emotional support from family and friends can make a significant difference to the experience of survivorship, but knowing when, how, and in what way to offer support can be a challenge to figure out. 

Mike Verano is a cancer survivor, author, and counselor with over 28 years of experience in the mental health field. Mike joins LUNGevity's Angela James to share concepts from his latest book, The Healing Power of Stress, as they relate to the caregiving experience, including a discussion on a concept he calls "posttraumatic caregiving." You can purchase Mike's book and find his other titles on Amazon.

Doctors' appointments are critical junctures in your loved one's lung cancer journey. They are a time to gather information and ask questions. We have created a list of tips for caregivers so that you feel prepared for your loved one's appointments, especially if you are new to the role.  

Dann Wonser, a 16-year lung cancer survivor and author of the book Second Wind – Thriving with Cancer, joins LUNGevity's Angela James to share learnings from his cancer journey and the tactics he's used to not only survive but thrive with lung cancer. Visit Dann's website to read his blog or purchase your own copy of Second Wind - Thriving with Cancer at www.dannwonser.com.

Genevieve De Renne is a caregiver and artist whose artwork has been featured on the cover of three recent issues of the Journal of Oncology Navigation & Survivorship. Genevieve joins LUNGevity's Angela James to share insights from her experience as a caregiver, especially how her art has helped her maintain purpose and power during her husband's lung cancer journey. You can view Genevieve’s cover art on the October, November, and December 2022 covers at www.jons-online.com/art-gallery.